Arber Xhekaj Addresses Fans' Concerns Over His Limited Ice Time This Season
Several fans and observers have pointed out the disappointing ice time of young Arber Xhekaj since the start of this 2025-26 Montreal Canadiens season.
Why has Quebecer Alexandre Carrier averaged over 16 minutes per game this season, while the rugged Xhekaj has only played 11 minutes per game?
Arber played 11 minutes and 8 seconds against the Toronto Maple Leafs, 15 minutes and 37 seconds against the Detroit Red Wings, and a very slim 6 minutes and 48 seconds against the Chicago Blackhawks.. Yes, yes, less than seven minutes!
What does Arber Xhekaj think about this? The question was asked to him today.
Arber Xhekaj publicly sends a message responding positively to his disappointing usage by Martin St-Louis
He's keeping the right mindset despite everything!
Arber Xhekaj today on being the 6th defenseman:
"There are games where I've played 5 mins, there are games where I've played 15 mins. I've just found ways to kinda stay in the game, so when it's my time to go, I'm ready to go."
- HabsOnReddit
"There are games where I've played 5 mins, there are games where I've played 15 mins. I've just found ways to kinda stay in the game, so when it's my time to go, I'm ready to go."
- HabsOnReddit
In any case, one thing's for sure, he's well aware of his ice time since these numbers are completely accurate!
Tonight, in a thrilling home opener win over the Seattle Kraken, Xhekaj logged a team-low 10 minutes and finished the game with one shot.
It will also be worth seeing if Martin St-Louis eventually turns to Jayden Struble, who is the seventh defenseman and hasn't played a single game yet this season.
Jayden Struble, 24 years old, is a left-handed defenseman standing 6 feet tall and weighing 207 pounds. He was a second-round pick of the Montreal Canadiens in 2019.
Last season, he recorded 13 points (and 52 penalty minutes) in 56 games with the Montreal Canadiens.
And you, what's your opinion regarding Arber Xhekaj's usage so far?
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